How To Cover Plants From Frost
Essential Steps to Protect Plants from Frost
Protecting plants from frost is essential to ensure their survival and health. Frost can damage or kill plants by causing ice crystals to form within their tissues, leading to cell rupture and death. However, by following a few simple steps, you can effectively cover your plants and shield them from the damaging effects of frost.
Choose appropriate covering material for plants
Firstly, choose the right covering material for your plants. Lightweight fabrics such as burlap, bed sheets, or floating row covers are ideal choices as they allow air and moisture circulation while trapping heat. Avoid using plastics or non-breathable materials, as they can retain moisture and cause damage to the plants.
Water plants before covering to avoid frost
Before covering your plants, make sure to water them thoroughly. Well-hydrated plants freeze at a slower rate compared to dry ones, reducing the risk of frost damage. Water the plants deeply and evenly so that the roots absorb the moisture, providing additional protection during freezing temperatures.
Securely cover plants to protect from frost
Next, drape the covering material over the plants. Be sure to leave some space between the fabric and the foliage, allowing some air circulation and preventing damage from the weight of the cover. Secure the cover firmly using stakes, rocks, or clothespins, keeping it in place even in strong winds. Also, ensure that the cover reaches all the way to the ground, creating a barrier against cold air.
